CSSA Advocacy in Washington D.C.

September 14, 2017

During the second week of September 2017, the Cal State Student Association sent a delegation to Washington D.C. to meet with higher education partners and policymakers. CSSA’s delegation was led by Maggie White (CSSA President), Alana Lim (CSSA Chair), Yomira Zamora (CSSA Civic Engagement Officer), Dr. Rob Shorette (CSSA Executive Director), and Jared Giarrusso (CSSA Assistant Director of Government Relations). Throughout this three-day trip, CSSA representatives spoke about a number of issues, including Pell grants, Title IX enforcement, and the important role of the Office of Civil Rights in the U.S. Department of Education; however, the main focus of many meetings was advocating for legislative solutions that ensure the protection of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

CSSA’s notable meetings with policymakers included Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (CA), Congressman Darrell Issa (CA), and Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA). During these meetings, there was a universal support for protecting DACA recipients; however, no legislative deal on DACA exists as of Friday, September 14, 2017. While the sentiments of policymakers pointed towards a legislative solution, it is clear that CSSA and CSU students must continue to build coalitions, advocate, and take action to support DACA students.